Do You Know the Benefits of Adopting an Older Companion Dog?

When most people consider getting a dog, it is common for them to think of getting a puppy. This is a natural thought, but the Humane Society of Utah would like you to consider the benefits of adopting an older companion dog.

Adult dogs are usually house broken and puppies are not. Puppies need to go out on a regular schedule and frequently. Older companion dogs can "hold it" for longer periods and, often, a rescued dog will have been housebroken before it is adopted.

Puppies chew up furniture and anything they can get their jaws on. No matter how well you watch your puppy, you can count on chewed up socks, shoes or even the remote control. An older companion dog can usually have the run of the house without destroying it.

Older companion dogs sleep through the night. Puppies naturally miss their littermates and a stuffed animal is not a substitute for a puppy pile with littermates in the dark of night. If you prefer peace and quiet, an adult dog might be a good choice for you.

When adopting an adult dog, the adoption fee should get you a dog with current vaccinations at the minimum. Puppies need a series of puppy shots and generally a trip or two to the emergency vet after eating something dangerous. This can add up to be substantially more than you paid for the puppy.

Older companion dogs are best described as “what you see is what you get”. You can see the full grown size of the dog, experience what its temperament is like, see how its been trained as well. Young puppies are still growing, developing their personalities and may not be the right match for you.

Consider the “biting factor” with puppies. A growing puppy bites almost anything that is put near their mouth. The mouthing and nipping a puppy does can be difficult to handle for youngsters in your home. Older companion dogs have grown out of that stage.

With an older companion dog, you have a dog that can go everywhere and do anything with you right now. No need to wait until your dog has grown up. Puppies are cute, but raising a pup to adulthood comes with a tremendous responsibility. Adopting an adult dog can be the best pet decision that you and your family make. Visit the Humane Society of Utah and give an older companion dog a chance.